Slavery Exhibit Returning to Philadelphia's Independence Mall

The exhibit was previously removed by the Trump administration.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

A slavery exhibit that was removed from Independence Mall in Philadelphia by the Trump administration is set to return to the site, according to city officials. The exhibit explores the history of slavery in America and its lasting impacts.

Why it matters

The return of the slavery exhibit to Independence Mall, a historic site in Philadelphia, is seen as an important step in acknowledging and educating the public about the country's history of slavery. The exhibit's removal by the previous administration had drawn criticism from many who felt it was an attempt to downplay or erase this part of American history.

The details

The slavery exhibit, which was previously housed at Independence Mall, was removed by the Trump administration in 2020. City officials have now announced that the exhibit will be reinstalled at the site, allowing visitors to learn about and reflect on the history of slavery in the United States.

  • The slavery exhibit was removed from Independence Mall in 2020 under the Trump administration.
  • The exhibit is set to return to Independence Mall in Philadelphia in 2026.

The players

Trump administration

The previous presidential administration led by former President Donald Trump, which had ordered the removal of the slavery exhibit from Independence Mall.

Philadelphia city officials

The local government representatives who have announced the return of the slavery exhibit to Independence Mall.

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What’s next

The city of Philadelphia is working to finalize the details and timeline for the reinstallation of the slavery exhibit at Independence Mall.

The takeaway

The return of the slavery exhibit to Independence Mall represents an important acknowledgment of the country's history and a commitment to educating the public about this critical part of the American experience.